Sony partners with Rakuten TV to offer IMAX Enhanced movies

IMAX Enhanced 4k content is coming to select Bravia TVs via the Rakuten TV app from September, Sony has confirmed.

The IMAX Enhanced programme, developed by IMAX and DTS, is a certification and licensing programme that combines high-end sound and vision electronics with IMAX digitally remastered 4K HDR content and DTS audio.

To qualify and carry the IMAX Enhanced logo, Sony TVs meet a prescribed set of performance requirements, set by IMAX, DTS engineers and Hollywood technical specialists.

The IMAX Enhanced programme uses proprietary post-production process developed by IMAX to digitally re-master content to produce more vibrant colours, greater contrast and sharper clarity. Content also comes with an IMAXsound mix featuring deep bass and dynamic range.

The first TVs to receive the service are the AG9 4k OLED (pictured), ZG9 8k HDR full array set and XG95 full array LED LCD. All are said to provide premium picture quality, colour, contrast, and clarity approaching that of a professional-grade monitor.

“We are excited to bring IMAX Enhanced content to Europe for the first time through our collaboration with Sony and Rakuten TV”, said Francisco Navarro-Sertich, Senior Vice President of Strategy at IMAX Corporation.

Launch content from Sony Pictures includes Venom, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Spider-Man: Far From Home (which will include 45 minutes of IMAX exclusive expanded aspect ratio).

“We are thrilled to support our collaborators to bring The IMAX Experience into the home with this new and exciting format,” said Pete Wood, Senior Vice President, Digital Sales, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. “IMAX Enhanced content continues to deliver on our promise to provide consumers with the best at home viewing experience.”